Tired all the time? Try this

If you feel rundown and overwhelmed, you could be suffering from adrenal fatigue.

Adrenal fatigue happens when our adrenal glands are unable to meet the demands of stress. This stress could stem from work, family issues or simply the fast pace of modern life.

The fight or flight response is instigated by the adrenal glands, but when stress is prolonged, the adrenal glands can become impaired.

Your body will do its best to compensate for this, but it comes at the detriment of your metabolism, cardiovascular system and your sleep.

Over time this will affect your mood and even your diet. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems. If you suspect adrenal fatigue is the cause of your tiredness, try the following tips:

Note – you are advised to visit your GP first to rule out any underlying causes of your tiredness.

Eat a balanced breakfast

Get your day off to a good start with a healthy and balanced breakfast. This should include lots of fibre and protein to help stabalise blood sugar and boost mental alertness.

Eat well and regularly

Keep up this momentum with small, regular meals throughout the day. This will keep your blood sugar levels stable, helping you to avoid mood swings. You should also look to cut your intake of refined/processed foods as they tend to be packed with sugar and additives which rob your body of nutrients. Instead, look to include zinc, B vitamins, manganese and vitamin C to help your adrenal glands thrive.

Avoid stimulants

Energy drinks, coffee and other stimulants will ultimately lead to a crash and are likely to make you feel worse. They can also over-stimulate your adrenal glands, exacerbating the problem.

Try herbal supplements

Herbs such as maca, rhodiola and ashwagandha are believed to help the body cope with stress. Speak to a professional herbalist for specific doses and be sure to consult your doctor before trying any new supplement.

Take time to relax

Relaxation is essential when it comes to beating stress and fatigue. Allocate some time every day for relaxation. Try meditation, yoga or simply winding down with a warm bath and a good book.